2018 - Falling back in love

As we are at the end of 2018 I wanted to reflect. Instead of listing my favourite books this year, I want to celebrate falling back in love with books and finding a community that I feel I'm hopefully becoming part of and absolutely loving! 

On the evening of January 1st 2018  I set myself some aims for the year ahead. Some I have not quite achieved, others I believe should be a continuous aim no matter the year but for me, the most important was what I put at number 4.

4. Read at least one book a month. 

Falling back in love with books :

One of my earliest memories is going to the library, my small chubby little hands selecting books and taking them home to read. I read to my Mum, I read to my nursery teachers but mainly, I read by myself. I was always at my happiest with a book in hand.  When my sister and I were young we shared a bedroom, we'd be sent to be at 7.30pm and out would come my book (working my way through childhood classics, Nancy Drew and then onto my Mum's Catherine Cookson books amongst many more). Hours later, I would still be reading when Dad came up to bed himself; I'd quickly hide my book under the covers as he came into turn off the light. I always thought I'd got away with it and he didn't have a clue. Looking back, he probably did know just never said anything.

Years ago I went through a very low and unhappy time, I lost my husband, Adrian, suddenly and unexpectedly. I became a widow at 27 years old and was totally shattered. The day before my husband died I had read a book by an author I loved, I won't say who or name the book, but the story centred around the character losing her husband suddenly and I remember being completely unable to comprehend how that would feel, I enjoyed the book but was unable to really connect with that character - little did I know less than 24 hours later I would. 

I know this will sound ridiculous but I blamed the book. How idiotic was I... to think that me reading a book caused something to happen, as though me contemplating such a devastating event had actually brought it into reality. I know this was just shock, grief and my own kind of crazy at play but I did think it, if only at my lowest, darkest times (when sleep deprivation was everything!) - I do realise how ridiculous it sounds, honest.

Grief broke me and for a long, long time I felt as though I was existing in a bubble. Nothing  held my interest anymore. I felt completely alien to myself, the things I had always found enjoyment in no longer did so, my ability to concentrate disappeared and my love for books just seemed to fade.  The one constant in my life, since being tiny, was my passion for books and reading but now I was not interested anymore and didn't feel I would be again. 

Fast forward a little. It's been years now.. my husband died in 2011 but it has taken me a really long time to get back to a version of myself I truly recognise. That's why this year has been so special. I have started reading again and I mean properly reading; the kind I always did, where books absorbed my interest and concentration so much the world around me disappeared. I began spending time in the library and finding comfort in books I have previously loved, authors I have adored. 2018 has been the year a massive part of the old me came back with a vengeance. 

It started with a visit to the library in July. I don't always pay attention to what books I'm picking up - I grab an armful and check out then I enjoy taking my time to look at my selections. This time I'd unknowingly selected a couple of authors I'd never read before. To say I devoured these books is an understatement, I'd read and placed holds on everything else I could find of theirs in the library by the end of the night.  From this I had an idea - what if I started a little blog so I could write up what I thought of the books I read? I didn't really have a clue what to do but jumped in and started this blog (I am still learning really... ) I started a twitter account (@thecomfychair2)  dedicated to the blog and with the hope of connecting with like-minded people and finding new authors.  

The rest is pretty apparent via this blog. I've read and reviewed more books this year than any year since my husband died. I have a TBR pile that is bigger than I've ever had been and it excites me to think about adding more. I'm discovering new authors all the time, I'm trying genres I wouldn't necessarily go near before. 
Plus I smashed my reading challenge on Goodreads (not started until way into the year!) Connecting with people on Twitter has been a highlight of the year. So many wonderful people, discussing books, promoting authors, supporting each other. I know realistically that I'm a little pebble in the ocean of great bloggers, book lovers etc but I enjoy the connections I have made so far and going into 2019 I am excited by what is to come. I can't wait to hear about new books, find more authors I haven't read before and hopefully make more like-minded 'friends.' 

I have two authors to THANK for being that spark back in July, that reignited my love of all things books (although plenty more have now helped to reinstall my passion for reading). I hope they don't mind me saying so and I don't want to embarrass them but I wanted to acknowledge their work, to show how their hard work does have an impact in ways they may not have realised.  Heidi Swain and Jane Linfoot - Thank you.  

Please check out their books and follow them on Twitter:
Heidi Swain - https://twitter.com/Heidi_Swain 
Jane Linfoot - https://twitter.com/janelinfoot

I have fallen back in love with reading, with books and I can't wait for the reads that 2019 will bring.

"Whenever you read a good book, somewhere in the world a door opens to allow in more light."

–Vera Nazarian

x

The Christmas Spirit - Susan Buchanan

The Christmas Spirit - Blurb

Christmas is coming, but not everyone is looking forward to it.
Rebecca has just been dumped and the prospect of spending the holiday period with her parents is less than appealing. Eighty- two-year-old Stanley lost his beloved wife, Edie, to cancer. How will he cope with his first Christmas without her? Jacob’s university degree hasn’t helped him get a job, and it looks like he’ll still be signing on come New Year. Workaholic Meredith would rather spend December 25th at home alone with a ready meal and a DVD box set. Can anything make her embrace the spirit of the season?

The enigmatic Natalie Hope takes over the reins at the Sugar and Spice bakery and café in an attempt to spread some festive cheer and restore Christmas spirit, but will she succeed?

Available to buy here:  http://amzn.to/1gcpTrc (UK) & http://amzn.to/KUArMU (US)

My Review:

If you are looking for a feel-good festive treat look no further. It is a heartwarming tale, an utterly charming story that will give you the warm and fuzzy feeling that is plentiful at Christmas time. 

With a lovely selection of well written characters you are drawn into each of their stories - they all face some sadness or problem but its a pleasure to read how they are interwoven into each others lives and how a special someone ensures they have a happier Christmas they thought possibly.

You can tell how unique Natalie is throughout and how she is instrumental in spreading her own Christmas magic for all the characters we grow find of.  I feel more could have been made of Natalie - she is so important to this story and although I like what I read of her, especially at the end, I feel like I wanted to know more. 

This book has it all - romance, humour and that special festive magic. It's a nice read, with a great pace. The descriptions of all Natalies special cakes will have you dreaming of cake; I'm definitely tempted to search for recipes of some! 

Looking for a quick read that will leave you with a warm feeling? Then I recommend The Christmas Spirit. 

Comfy Rating: 👍👍👍👍
Thank you to Rachels Random Resources for the opportunity to review this book.

About the Author:

Susan Buchanan lives in Scotland with her husband and their two children. She is the author of four novels: Return of the Christmas Spirit, The Christmas Spirit, The Dating Game, and Sign of the Times. She is currently working on books five and six: The Proposal and Just One Day.

Susan is also a proofreader, editor and translator, and when not working, writing, or caring for her two delightful cherubs, loves reading, the theatre, quiz shows and eating out – not necessarily in that order!

Facebook – www.facebook.com/susan.buchanan.author

Twitter – susan_buchanan

Blog – Sooz’s journal – www.susancbuchanan.blogspot.co.uk

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One Day in December - Josie Silver

Available on Amazon here 

Goodreads Blurb: A love story about what happens after you meet, or rather, don't meet the one. Laurie is pretty sure love at first sight doesn't exist.But then, through a misted-up bus window one snowy December day, she sees a man who she knows instantly is the one. Their eyes meet, there's a moment of pure magic...and then her bus drives away.

Assured they're fated to find each other again, Laurie spends a year searching for him. She doesn't find him, not when it matters anyway. Instead they "reunite" at a Christmas party, when her best friend introduces her new boyfriend, Jack. 

What follows is ten years of friendship, heartbreak, missed opportunities, roads not taken, and destinies reconsidered.

Review:

One Day in December is one of those books that you start and within a couple of chapters you know you will not be putting it down - not for anything! The further into the book I read, the more involved I got and there was just no way I would, or could,  stop until the very last word.   

The story of Laurie and those she loves is engaging, frustrating yet heartwarming. You can identify the many ways one person can love and be loved - evident through the different relationships developed in this story. If you haven't had one 100% true love yet, or you have had several, if you have lost love or those that you love - you will identify with Laurie at some point in this book and that's what makes it utterly fantastic and will appeal to so many. This is not your typical love story; it isn't as simple as girl meets boy, they fall in love, something happens to break them but within a couple of chapters the book ends with them reconciled. One Day in December is full of love, all consuming and life-changing love but broken down with an interwoven tale of angst, heart break and loss.

I enjoyed the characters and though the focus is really on the situations they put themselves in, the characters are relatable and interesting, with none really pushing my buttons and annoying me like some can in other books. You grow with these characters, the time span of the story is over a decade - an emotional rollercoaster from the perspectives of Laurie and Jack.  You are given their inner most thoughts and feelings and entrusted with their heartbreaking secrets; you know they care deeply for each other as well as the other characters. 

Josie Silver balances angsty, emotional story lines with scenes of humour and light; some quirky moments alongside the ones that have you reaching for the tissues. It's a fairly short read, but it is perfect for a cold day in December; you can get cosy and enjoy the book.

I was happy with how the book ended, but I think I wanted more. I'm only being greedy (often happens when I enjoy a book)... I felt that I had come so far with the characters so the ending just wasn't quite enough , I longed to know how it all worked out - maybe fast forward a year and be given an epilogue of sorts. Maybe it's been left open for a return visit to these characters in the future?

"You tread lightly through life, but you leave deep footprints that are hard for other people to fill.

Thank you Josie Silver for giving us such a gorgeous book, full of heart and soul. I loved reading every word. It was emotional and definitely gave me moments where I could reflect on my own life and events within it that enabled a strong connection with the main character that I haven't had in many books this year. It is no surprise that Reece Witherspoons book club pick for December is One Day in December. It's truly deserved and I can only throw in my support and recommend this as one you definitely need to read.

Comfy Rating: 👍👍👍👍👍

One New York Christmas - Mandy Baggot

Available to buy here

Confession time. This is my first Mandy Baggot book – although upon checking my TBR pile I notice I have a couple of others stowed away there, so let’s say they have been bumped up the pile towards the top (I can’t be the only one that piles her TBR pile in an order that she usually ignores right?)

One New York Christmas
Lara Weeks is looking forward to Christmas with her long-term boyfriend Dan until he drops a bombshell.

When best friend Susie persuades Lara to head to the Big Apple for a festive trip, will Lara find the answers she has been searching for and will she be ready to break-up or breakthrough this Christmas? Will Lara get her happy-ever-after with the man of her dreams?

What a treasure this book is! Set in ever exciting and completely entrancing New York, Mandy Baggot transports us via her descriptive writing and charming characters. If, like me, you’ve had an opportunity to explore NYC you will be taken back, recalling what its like on those tourist filled, busy streets, remembering the sounds and smells as well as those iconic views. If (like main character Lara) you haven’t yet adventured to New York this book will have you yearning to go!

Lara, our truck driving lead is comfortable with her life and her boyfriend Dan, but as Christmas approaches, he drops a bombshell that leaves Lara feeling not so merry and bright. I like Lara immediately – she’s direct and straight to the point, fearless but afraid in equal measure.  Lara is pretty kick ass really when I think about it – she flies off to somewhere she has only ever dreamed of, is left to her own devices A LOT in this massive, strange city, she climbs trees, rescues animals and stands up for the things she believes in. I related to the way Lara fell in love with NYC and her desire to explore more of the world in any way she can.

Our main male lead Seth is an actor, having known success (Lara is a fan before New York is even mentioned) he is now a jobbing actor on the hunt for his next big role and has his sights set on a role that is perfect for him. His best friend, now acting as his agent, starts something on Twitter that has unexpected consequences for all involved. Seth is kind, caring and gets swept away in Trent’s crazy, but well intended plans that lead him to a chance encounter with Lara. The connection between the two characters is instant, although they are from two completely different worlds. I enjoyed seeing how they developed and hoped that we could see each character get the happy ending they deserved. 

Mandy Baggot’s writing is descriptive and draws you in but it did take a few chapters to be fully invested but, once I was there was no stopping me - I read quickly as I was so keen to see how things were going for both Lara and Seth. The additional characters in this book are funny and you will like them – Susie and her boyfriend; Kossy, all the characters from the shelter, Trent; each adding something interesting to the story and helping Lara and Seth discover themselves (and each other!)  I feel like I would have liked to hear more about some of them, not a criticism more of me being greedy to have more.

I giggled a lot reading this book, especially thanks to some interesting animal escapades and was enticed to consider many new holiday destinations. I found it emotional in some places, especially in terms of Seth when he was searching for answers, not fully knowing if he really wanted to discover the truth. One New York Christmas is a fantastic read that will leave you feeling all warm and happy, it’s one book you need on your festive to read list. 
Thanks to Penguin Random House UK & Ebury Publishing for sending me this in exchange for an open and honest review. 

Snowflakes and Cinnamon Swirls at The Winter Wonderland - Heidi Swain

Available here on Amazon

After calling off her engagement, Hayley, the Wynthorpe Hall housekeeper, wants nothing more than to return to her no-strings fun-loving self, avoiding any chance of future heartbreak. Moving into Wynthorpe Hall to escape the town’s gossip, Hayley finds herself immersed in the Connelly family’s festive activities as they plan to host their first ever Winter Wonderland. Gabe, a friend of the Connelly’s son Jamie, has also taken up residence and he quickly makes an impression on Hayley. With festivities underway, the pair find themselves drawn close to one another, but unbeknownst to Hayley, Gabe, too, has a reason for turning his back on love, one that seems intent on keeping them apart.

Simply wonderful.

What an absolute gem of a book. A story that is just as gorgeous as the front cover - Heidi Swain (@Heidi_Swain) never fails to give us a book with all the ‘feels.’ (I was lucky enough to come across one of her books in the library during the summer and instantly bought everything she has written and devoured them all in a ridiculously short time!)

Snowflakes and Cinnamon Swirls at The Winter Wonderland is another festive trip to the wonderful Wynthorpe Hall and back to Wynbridge for a lovely catch up with characters we have previously fallen in love with. Although the books are connected by where they are set, it can be read as a standalone book – though I warn you that you will want to catch up on every other Heidi Swain book afterwards!

I loved Hayley’s character in Sleigh Rides and Silver Bells at the Christmas Fair and was so pleased to see she got her very own book this time around. I love that she’s feisty, flirty and a proper little madam (although in a very lovable way), she deserves happiness and of course a real, true love.

Gabe – oh Gabe – what an absolute dreamboat! He is a fantastic leading man and perfect for our Hayley. Something is holding him back and I can see why Hayley feels like she gets mixed messages from him. As their friendship develops you are desperate for them to both get their act together and just love one another, but Gabe is holding back for a reason that may stop him ever getting close to Hayley or anyone.

This book is a definite festive treat. The Winter Wonderland sounds magical, you can imagine such a great adventure being at Wynthorpe Hall at this time of year. Plus, Angus. How could I leave out my favourite character! He is quirky and funny, providing many laugh out loud moments for me but he has a heart of gold. His devotion to making his ‘family’ happy as well as the villagers is heart warming and what makes Angus so fabulous. Everyone needs an Angus in their lives.

Heidi is one of my favourite authors, never failing to make me happy, have me in tears but then leave me with a heart full of love. She has created characters that feel like friends and places that feel like a place I would love to call home.

I read Snowflakes and Cinnamon Swirls at the Winter Wonderland in two sittings – simply because I wanted to stretch out the pleasure of the read. Get yourself a big hot chocolate and cinnamon swirl and snuggle up for this festive treat.

Comfy Rating: 👍👍👍👍👍

A Gift from the Comfort Food Cafe - Debbie Johnson

Available from Amazon here 

Christmas has never been Katie Seddon’s favourite time of year. Her childhood memories aren't the type that fill her with happiness or nostalgia.  But since she moved to the village of Budbury on, Katie and her son have found a new family to be part of.  This family is a community of people, brought together by life’s unexpected roads and all seeking the healing magic that a yummy slice of cake and a cupful of kindness at the Comfort Food Café can provide. Katie’s new friends are determined to give her a Christmas to remember, and with a gorgeous newcomer in town, Katie’s Christmas wish for a happy home for her son might just come true.

I am a massive fan of Deborah Johnson (@debbiemjohnson) and especially The Comfort Food Cafe series and so was especially excited to go back and see the wonderful familiar faces. It's a  full length standalone book, you really don't have to have read any of the previous Comfort Food Cafe books to enjoy it (if you have you will love catching up with everyone!). I do recommend going back and reading them though of course.

Finally this book brings in Katie, who has perhaps been on the edge of some of the other stories told about Budbury's finest. I'm so pleased we get to delve into her story but also having secondary narratives of our many of my old favourites.

The story touches on some sensitive and emotive issues and considers how a persons upbringing can affect future relationships. We see how Katie's childhood has damaged the relationship she had with Saul's father and continues to threaten all other relationships that Katie has tried her hardest to avoid building.  

Katie is a loner - a hard working and loving single Mum, but I find her to be very likable. I loved little Saul and the relationship they have is adorable. I can understand why she has built up a little wall around herself but was desperately willing her to start letting others in. The Comfort Food Cafe and its regular faces have the ability to make anyone feel better, whatever is happening in life -cake, tea and friendship is waiting to make things right.  

This is such a heart warming read. Definitely one to read all snuggled up with a big pot of tea and some fancy treats. I read it very quickly - devouring every moment. There are some lovely comedic moments in this romantic tale, I laughed out loud on a couple of occasions - especially when naming the cat!

As always Debbie Johnson has written with warmth and love, taking us back to a place fans hold dear. I, for one, would love to go to that cafe and see what unfolds. Such a fabulous book to escape with - Debbie never lets us down. I can't wait until March 2019 to get my next fix of The Comfort Food Cafe!

Comfy Rating: 👍👍👍👍👍

The Little Book Cafe: Tash's story - Georgia Hill

This is the first Georgia Hill book I have read (I'm sure it won't be the last). I read it in one sitting in about an hour and a half so a fairly easy book to pick up when you want something to delve into but maybe not commit a massive amount of time.

I have no prior knowledge of any of previous books so wasn't aware or familiar with the characters but I believe that if you have read previous titles you would be. I don't think it changes your enjoyment of this book, as a standalone it works well too. I didn't feel I'd missed out. This is the first in a set of three new stories and focuses on Tash.

Tash is in a relationship with Adrian and immediately, I realised this was not a woman in a happy relationship. She was off with friends, in a bad mood and really not a happy lady. You come to see how, although she loves the comfortable and lavish lifestyle Adrian can give her, she doesn't love him and in fact she comes to realise he isn't treating her that well at all. Possessive, controlling and demeaning - Adrian is not the type of man Tash wants to be with let alone marry.

Tash meets someone at the new book club in town, becomes friends and with their help, and a series of incidents Tash realises she needs to move on with her life in her own way.
After events take a really dark turn, Tash manages to escape and turns to the one person she knows will treat her well. 

Some aspects of the story annoyed me - the thinly veiled 'fat shaming' vibe of Tash towards Amy, "She could eat the whole picnic" - I felt were just mean and made me dislike her a bit. Not that I think she should go through all she does but it seemed she has turned into the bully she didn't like at school. Maybe projecting her own insecurities on others but I didn't really feel it necessary to be mean towards others.

Overall I liked it and would read all others by the author. There is a darker storyline than the pretty front cover may portray. It is an easy read with some decent characters.

I received a copy of this book from Harper Impulse via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

I invited her in - Adele Parks

Available here on Amazon 

Mel hears from a long-lost friend out of the blue; they are in need of help and so lovely Mel  doesn’t hesitate to invite her to stay. Mel and Abi were best friends at Uni, sharing the highs and lows of student life until Mel’s unplanned pregnancy made her drop out .
Seventeen years later, Mel and Abi’s lives couldn’t be more different. Mel is happily married and has a chaotic but happy family home, with three children. Abi married and moved to LA for a glamourous life of celebrity. Everything was perfect, until she discovered her partner had been cheating. Abi needs a true friend to lean on, to share her grief over a glass of wine, and to have some time to heal. Thinking of her dear old friend Mel, she realises there would be no better place to heal than in a family home. 'I invited her in' is a dark tale of the reunion of long-lost friends and is a gripping exploration of wanting what you can’t have, jealousy and revenge. 

This story is predominantly told from Mel’s point of view with occasional chapters focusing on other characters. I enjoyed seeing certain parts from another characters perspective, I think it definitely adds something extra to the story - you get a more well rounded view of events - for good or bad. 

The story line for this book is a good idea, its definitely full of little twists and turns - some may be a little predictable but you are still caught off guard at times - some events in this book are not at all what I imagined.  It isn't always a fault of the writer that we can predict some of the story, all book lovers read enough to be able to do it - the twists that you don't necessarily coming in 'I invited her in' are gripping and well placed. 

It took a few chapters for it to really get going but once it did I was committed in seeing what exactly what happening.I was well and truly invested in finding out exactly what Abi was planning to do and how Mel fit into her scheming.

I thought the characters were good, if frustrating. Mel did come across as a bit of a damp squib in many ways, a bit pathetic - she is very easily led by Abi - for a 'friend' she hadn't seen for a very long time she was soon siding with Abi over Ben and forsaking their relationship for the one she is rebuilding with her friend. You want to like Mel, and I did pity all she went through, but I felt she could have been stronger, she should have listened to her husband Ben. Ben on the whole is a nice man, hard working and can see that Abi is not someone to have around for long but I felt he could've tried harder to pull Mel away from Abi and trusted his gut instinct.  I didn't trust Abi from the beginning, her whole appearance and demeanour put me on edge, early on you realise all is not what it seems with her and soon you see how she enjoys her hold over Mel.

This book will take you on an emotional rollercoaster - experiencing the turmoil of the characters involved. Adele Parks provides a dramatic tale - a story full of revenge and betrayal that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the last page. It gives us a look at how we are so eager to trust, especially if it comes from a place of regret and that you never really know what anyone is willing to do to get exactly what they want. 

I am not 100% sure I would agree with this as just a 'thriller' - perhaps a darker chick-lit with added extras but I enjoyed it anyway. Once I'd got into it I was very eager to see how things progressed and couldn't put it down. I would recommend for a good, well written book by a very popular and respected author.

Comfy Rating: 👍👍👍👍

A Part of Me - Anouska Knight

Available here on Amazon

Amy and James have finally been accepted into the adoption process, after a long, painful and emotional road. When things start to look like their family may be a complete, a dark secret changes their lives. Does Amy follow her heart but let the thing she wants most in her life slip away, or should she chase the dream but deny the truth? Adding to her stress is a client who is well and truly intent on keeping Amy on her toes.

I imagine that almost having everything your heart desires is the most wonderful feeling in the world, especially after working so hard to move forward after the darkest times of your life. You automatically feel for Amy, of course James as well, but with Amy you feel the pain she has been through and want to see her get the happy ending she yearns for and deserves.

I felt shock and outrage by her discovery, with secrets and revelations out in the open you see how hard Amy battles – heart or head type decisions that really will impact her life forever.

This is the first Anouska Knight book I have read and I’ve been pleasantly surprised. I expected this to be a lighter more chick lit/ rom-com style book (I love them!) and found it gave us the romance, the love and even the trials and tribulations of a will they or won’t they tale but on a deeper and in some ways more meaningful way.

‘A Part of Me’ looks at many aspects of life and love – families, love, loss, adoption and how relationships that are formed early in life can go on to play a large role in your adult life. The book explores how people use controlling behaviours in relationships to emotionally hold loved ones to random as well as how secrets can change lives in an instant.

Emotional from the outset, it did take a bit to get going but once it picked up pace I was hooked and so sat and read this is one sitting. It’s well written and the characters are amusing and believable. I did warm to Amy – her indecisiveness and inability to do see what was right in front of her frustrated me though. A lovely ending that may have been what was glaringly obvious all along –it would be interesting to explore it a little further as it felt like I wanted more.

Some of the characters gave us some comedic, light relief such as Amy’s Mum, Viv. I was glad to have the giggles they gave– especially when the theme was generally quite emotive. A good read, I will be looking forward to another Anouska Knight book in the future.

Comfy Rating: 👍👍👍👍

Sunshine and Sweet Peas in Nightingale Square - Heidi Swain

Available on Amazon here 

Kate is almost-divorced and desperate to keep as far away from her ex-husband as possible. He is determined to have her back but she has found the perfect place to hide away. Kate finds herself besotted with a house on the historical Nightingale. The residents of Nightingale Square don't take no for an answer so Kate soon finds herself pulled into new friendships and adventures.

Kate soon finds herself campaigning the council to turn the green into a community garden, whilst all the residents are horrified to discover that the Victorian mansion on the other side of the square has been bought by developers. Concerned for the preservation of their small community they begin to worry all hope is lost until the arrival of a handsome stranger looks sure to turn things around!

You know a book is good when you simply cannot pick up another for a couple of days… that is exactly how I have felt since finishing Sunshine and Sweet Peas in Nightingale Square. Heidi Swain (@Heidi_Swain) has yet again given us an array of wonderful characters as well as creating a fantastic setting– Nightingale Square sounds like the type of place I would love live; where something is always happening, people take you in and make you part of a great group of friends and neighbours forming a real community - looking out for each other and their local area.  This book simply captures your heart and leaves you with a warm fuzzy feeling – I couldn’t stop imagining what these characters would be up to next.

Our leading lady, Kate, is a charming character that we learn has been treated poorly by a cheating husband and now believes the only life for her is the single life! Kate keeps things to herself but we  do eventually discover that she blames herself for the husband being a cheater and also that he gave her more than she bargained for in more ways than one.

The Nightingale Square characters have brilliant and individual personalities - busybody Carole, struggling first time mum Heather and the bolshie, loud but absolute sweetheart Lisa – all play an important role in supporting Kate in the local campaign but also in replenishing her faith in people and love. 

If you are already a fan Heidi’s books (and of Wynbridge) you will be happy to know that, whilst this novel is set in Norwich, there is a brief visit to the much-loved market town. Kate is originally from Wynbridge and is related to one of Heidi’s much loved characters. 

I love Heidi’s style of writing; it flows very nicely and fully engages you throughout. I devoured the book in one sitting, as I was engrossed and didn’t want to stop. With all stories, especially if you read a lot, you can predict what will happen, I don’t say that to be negative as I always enjoy to read how the story actually blossoms but with Sunshine and Sweet Peas in Nightingale Square there are added ups and downs that do keep you on your toes, the will they/wont they romance; the added surprises you wouldn't predict– all will keep you hooked until the end. 

This is a great story of how one woman rebuilds her life, her heart as well as her trust in other people. It is a story of true friendship and community- finding things where you least expect them.  If you haven’t had the sheer pleasure of reading any Heidi Swain books before – then you must, you will not regret it. In fact, like me, you’ll be eager to devour as many as you possibly can.

Comfy Rating: 👍👍👍👍👍

Somewhere Beyond The Sea - Miranda Dickinson

Available here on Amazon 

Miranda Dickinson's Somewhere Beyond the Sea is a romantic tale full of love, stars, living your own life and accepting the magic that can be found all around.

Seren MacArthur is living a life she never intended. Desperately trying to save the Cornish seaside business her late father built – while grieving for his loss. Seren has pushed her own dreams to one side and the pressures soon take a toll. One morning she discovers a half-finished sea glass star on her favourite beach, and cannot resist completing it.  One simple action starts a whole chain of events that will change everything.

Jack Dixon is desperate – wanting work to ensure he can give his young daughter Nessie the life she deserves. Recently widowed and made homeless, Jack has managed to somehow kept their heads above water. Creating seaglass stars with Nessie soon becomes something truly special for them both and the duo discover the magic they need to see a positive future.

Seren and Jack are both searching for something that is missing in their lives, but when they meet in real life, it’s on the opposing sides of a battle. Both have a definite reason to fight –but only one can win. With so much at stake, will they ever find what they are really looking for?
Miranda Dickinson (@wurdsmyth) has given us an incredibly heart-warming tale that transports you to the idyllic, St Ives. A location that adds some extra magic to this wonderful book, written with such description you feel like you are right there (and you definitively wish you were!) We are introduced to the hardworking and creative Seren, a young woman passionately, yet quietly, grieving the loss of her father; and Jack - a single father focused on giving his energetic daughter and with doing whatever it takes to provide her with all the love, attention, and security she needs. 
The characters and their stories of loss broke my heart in such a real way. I identify with both characters - the grief of losing a father and the heartbreak of being left a young widow (although my reality is we had no children and we were very much in love - so not quite the same as Jack). Without my Dad, I feel like a small girl wandering alone without the security and protection I always felt from him and this made everything Seren felt and did more important, I felt like I was with her in every heartbeat, every thought.

Nessie is fantastic; her character providing fun, comedic moments as well as melting your heart with her honest, innocent views on life. The relationship she has with her father is simply gorgeous, the love they have for each other is almost tangible and reflects what I imagine the relationship between Seren and her Dad was like when she was that age. Also, a very real reminder of the love I lost and deeply miss – as I am sure many other readers will feel too. 
I loved how the story was told through the dual narrative, having it unfold equally from both perspectives and understanding the motives behind each character’s actions.  I find the alternating chapters a treat, quite short and fast paced, it makes it difficult to put down as you desperately want to know each character next move. (It’s difficult enough as it’s such a beautiful book anyway). 

Although this is a love story, a real head over heels tale of falling for someone when it’s least expected, it isn’t all the story is. It is a beautiful reminder of how delicate and fragile we are (like the sea-glass), how deeply we can feel and how although we may be broken, we can still sparkle and shine – especially when you find something, or someone, to feel passionate about. It’s also about how we must, at times, look beyond what we need for ourselves and think about what those around us need more.

Somewhere Beyond The Sea is beautifully written, with characters you love and themes that you will easily identify with. It’s something special and you will not want to put it down. It’s not often something resonates SO deeply and personally. It’s a must read, you’ll be enchanted. 

Comfy Rating: 👍👍👍👍👍

Christmas at the Little Wedding Shop - Jane Linfoot

Available on Amazon 

Christmas is coming for all those at Brides by the Sea, Cornwall’s cutest little wedding shop, and the in-house wedding dress designer Seraphina East is at her best in her studio designing exquisite dresses, the type that makes even the demanding bride speechless.

This time the demanding bride is Sera’s very own sister Alice. These two sisters aren’t exactly close, Alice hasn’t even asked Sera to design her wedding dress but asks Sera to take charge in getting things ready when she is stuck overseas with work. But as plans start to go wrong and the groom hasn’t turned up, Sera is determined her big sister gets the wedding of her dreams – especially when that means keeping two irresistible best men under control. A blast from the past shocks Sera, can she keep her mind on what she needs to do for her sister, or will everything end in disaster?!

This is my third visit to St Aiden and the wonderful women (and men) of Brides by the Sea. I didn’t read them in order – usually something that would drive mad – but it really doesn’t matter. Picking up this book, I was instantly transported back to Cornwall and it very much felt like I was back with my closest friends. 

If you haven’t read any of the previous books, don’t worry, this can easily work as a standalone but I would imagine you’d want to catch up.
This story gives us Sera, the quiet, yet fabulously amazing, dress designer – I like her a lot. I like that she is not a girly girl, she doesn’t like fuss and attention yet she can be fiery and doesn’t realise just how tough she can be. She doesn't suffer fools gladly and she really does find one in the gorgeous, utterly chaotic and charming Quinn, one of the two best men helping to get the wedding organised. As they try to fulfill all the tasks in the wedding manual Alice sent, all manner of things start to go wrong. Sera's friends are on hand and, as always, they are willing to help - there are no problems that these guys cannot fix to ensure a Happily Ever After.

Personally, I enjoyed the obvious rivalry between the two best men. Both wanting Sera for themselves and constantly battling for her attention. Quinn, in a more brash and obvious way while Johnny kept it simple, classy and was the guy I was championing from the beginning. At times during the book I did wonder if Sera would go the other way and end up with the wrong guy, as it sounded really tempting for her but I knew the best man (ha ha – best man, get it?!) would win. 

I adore Jane Linfoots writing, her style and the way I never want to put a book down. The way her writing flows and gives us the kind of book where you don’t notice time slipping by because you are so completely absorbed.

This book gave me a true Christmas feel (even in September), I was dazzled by the decorations, the descriptions of the amazing dresses, and I drooled over the cakes. With all of books I’ve read by Jane Linfoot, I was bowled over by the feelings of love and friendship. So much so I wish I lived in St Aiden and I could be part of Brides by the Sea.

Comfy Rating: 👍👍👍👍👍

Sleigh Rides and Silver Bells at the Christmas Fair - Heidi Swain

Available here from Amazon 

I hold my hands up and admit I’m a new addition to the Heidi Swain Appreciation Society, but I LOVE everything I have been able to get my hands on so far and that includes Sleigh Rides and Silver Bells at the Christmas Fair.

Independent Anna takes a job as companion to the owner of Wynthorpe Hall for the festive period, expecting it to last only a few weeks - little does she know that this is the start of a life she never believed she could have. Anna is Anti-Christmas and does everything she can to avoid the entire season, but very soon after her arrival at Wynthorpe Hall she is amazed to find herself thrown in the festive deep end. Within the eccentric household, she starts to feel like she is part of their very unique family and when Jamie arrives home from travelling it soon becomes clear Wynthorpe Hall will provide her with far more than she was bargaining for

Jamie finds himself struggling to come to terms with life at home, responsibilities are making it difficult for him to be truly happy. He makes a pact with Anna – she must teach him to fall back in love with Wynthorpe Hall, while he helps her fall back in love with Christmas. But will it all prove too much for Anna, or can the family of Wynthorpe Hall warm her heart once and for all.

I have no qualms with reading festive books at any point in the year, I’m more than happy to cosy up and start thinking about getting festive. Heidi Swain gives us a marvellous, heart-warming festive filled book and I loved every moment of it.

Having only recently been introduced to Wynbridge I was pleased to find myself back -  this time up at Wynthorpe Hall with a whole host of new characters to discover (and ultimately fall in love with). I thought the setting of the Hall added extra festive feeling, imagining the grand building and sweeping landscape. Throughout the book, we are re-introduced to characters from Heidi’s other books, this is something I always really love in books as it feels like you are visiting old friends and catching up on their lives.

This takes nothing away from the new characters in this books. They are all different with their own little back story (and potential for future stories maybe??) but I must confess, I was mostly enamoured with Angus. Lovable Angus, mischievous, smart and always up to something. I can’t wait to find out what Angus can get up to next. I felt for, and liked, Anna- not because I am anti-Christmas (I’m not!) but through the writing you can feel that she has suffered, she has been hurt, devastated and built her own walls up to protect herself. It was wonderful to see her open up and let others in, she embraced the people around her and accepted the love and support they were offering.

I love the relationship between Jamie and Anna, how they help each other and how they learn to love along the way – Anna with Christmas, Jamie with Wynthorpe Hall and both with each other. It is such a feel good, romantic tale that you can cosy up with – whether it’s the festive season or not. 


I just couldn’t put the book down, it’s beautifully written and leaves you with a lovely warm feeling. Here’s to the next! Follow Heidi on Twitter - @Heidi_Swain

Comfy Rating: 👍👍👍👍👍